Obituary of Norma B. Simmons

Norma B. Simmons, of Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains, formerly of Germantown, New York, died at home Thursday, February 16, 2023, just one week shy of her 98th birthday.

Born in Brooklyn, Norma was one of three children born to Richard and Beatrice Ahrens. Raised in the Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn, she graduated from high school there before moving upstate to live with family. While out on a double date in Germatown, New York, she met Samuel Simmons. Though they weren't originally paired up, the two were destined for one another, and in 1948, they wed.

Settling in Germantown, Norma and Samuel raised a son and a daughter there together. While Samuel worked six days a week to support his family, Norma kept the kids in line and the house neat and tidy. While the kids were in school, she worked as a seamstress in one of Germantown's only factories: a manufacturer of women's brassieres. With great hours and lots of flexibility, Norma was able to work and manage her home as well, and in turn, gave her family a strong foundation. 

Norma had a huge heart, and was driven to help those in need. She took on the care of several elderly relatives, friends and neighbors, who in succession moved into her home to be cared for by Norma at the end of their lives. Norma was gifted with patience and compassion, and never shied from doing the work for those who could no longer do for themselves. 

Norma retired to Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains, and immediately enjoyed living in the busy community. She was invited to join a group of women for dinner on her very first day, and that group became her posse. She embraced the clubs, activities and socialization that the community provided, and was happy to live in such a wonderful community. 

Norma was deeply loved, and was cared for by her children until the end of her life. She is lovingly survived by her daughter, Nancy J. Simmons and her husband, Leslie Christie, and her son, Samuel S. Simmons; by her grandchildren, Lily, Ahren, Grayson, and Cameron; and her great-grandchildren, Jameson, Eva, Alani and Aidan.

She was predeceased by her husband, Samuel S. Simmons; her daughter, Holly; her daughter-in-law, Melody Froehlich; and her brothers, Douglas and Frederick Ahrens.

A graveside service will be held at the Linlithgo Reformed Church of Livingston, NY, at a future date. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Norma's memory to the Fireman's Home, 125 Harry Howard Ave, Hudson, NY 12534 would be greatly appreciated by her family.